How to Remove Chat from the Taskbar in Windows 11

Introduction

With the rollout of Windows 11 Microsoft put its Teams software front and center, loading the software automatically when you boot up your computer, and planting a shortcut to Teams Chat on your taskbar. In this video I’ll cover how you can remove the Teams Chat shortcut from your Windows 11 taskbar if the presence of the icon is cramping your style. Alternatively, if you want to stop Microsoft Teams from loading when you boot up your Windows 11 computer, you can click here to check out my video that will show you how to do that. You can find the list of steps to do this below, as well as my YouTube video linked above where I talk through the steps and show the associated images.

Steps to Remove Chat from the Taskbar in Windows 11

1. Navigate to your Windows 11 home screen, and then press the “Windows” and “I” keys at the same time. The System Settings window opens.
2. Click to select “Personalization” in the menu on the left side of the screen. The Personalization options are shown on the right side of the screen.
3. Click “Taskbar” in the list of Personalization options. The Taskbar screen is displayed.
4. Find the Taskbar Items section on this screen, and then find “Chat” within that section. Click to turn the toggle associated with Chat off. The Chat icon will be removed from your Windows 11 taskbar going forward. You can navigate back to this screen to toggle it back on at any time.

Reasons to Consider Removing the Chat Icon from the Taskbar in Windows 11

Save Taskbar Space and Declutter

Maximizing taskbar space is crucial for improving productivity. Removing chat apps that are not in frequent use helps declutter the taskbar, making it easier to locate the apps that matter most. Keeping only the necessary apps on the taskbar speeds up access to them, saving time and effort.

Protect Sensitive Conversations

Removing chat apps from the taskbar helps keep sensitive conversations private. When working on a shared computer, hiding chat apps prevents others from seeing messages and notifications. Keeping private conversations confidential protects sensitive information and maintains privacy.

Minimize Interruptions

Chat apps can be a major source of distractions and interruptions, especially when working on a task that requires focus. Removing chat apps from the taskbar reduces interruptions and helps maintain focus, leading to increased productivity and better work outcomes.

Maintain Privacy

Working on a shared computer can raise privacy concerns, especially when it comes to chat apps. Removing chat apps from the taskbar helps maintain privacy by preventing others from seeing notifications or messages. Keeping private conversations confidential protects sensitive information and enhances privacy.

Customize the Taskbar

Removing chat apps from the taskbar is a simple way to customize the taskbar according to personal preferences and usage patterns. It helps focus on the apps that matter most and speeds up access to them, making the taskbar more efficient and user-friendly.